This publication contains results from the national Voluntary Work Survey conducted throughout Australia from March to July 2006 as part of the General Social Survey (GSS). This is the third detailed survey conducted by the ABS on this topic. Previous Voluntary Work Surveys were conducted in June 1995 and over four quarters in 2000. The major aim of the survey was to collect data on rates of participation in voluntary work, hours contributed, characteristics of people who volunteer, the types of organisations they work for and the activities they undertake. Information on whether people made monetary donations to organisations and the types of organisations donated to were also collected. Donor information was previously collected along with voluntary work in 2000.

CHANGES IN THIS SURVEY

New questions have been added to strengthen the 'willingness' criterion which has always been part of the definition of voluntary work. These are designed to exclude unpaid work for organisations where the work is undertaken under some form of direction. Details and data comparisons are provided in the Appendix. The Appendix also outlines some other changes that may affect the comparison of data over time.

ROUNDING

Where figures have been rounded, discrepancies may occur between the sums of component items and totals. Unless otherwise stated, proportions are based on stated or classifiable responses.

INQUIRIES

For information about ABS statistics and services, refer to the back of this publication.

For further information about these statistics and the availability of related unpublished statistics, contact the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070.

INQUIRIES

For further information about these and related statistics, contact the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070.